By John Ndegwa / BMA
Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA), under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Dr. Eric Katana, has officially launched a Training of Trainers (ToT) programme focusing on the prevention of violence and harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and sexual assault within the maritime sector.
The timely initiative comes in response to a new directive by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which mandated that beginning 1st January 2026, all seafarers’ basic safety training under STCW Code A-VI/1-4 must include comprehensive modules on preventing violence and harassment. The new requirements emphasize awareness creation, proper response mechanisms, and the promotion of a respectful and safe working environment at sea.
The directive will be implemented through national flag states in line with updates to the STCW Convention and the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, making compliance essential for maritime training institutions and shipping companies worldwide.
During the training session, BMA staff and trainers were taken through the new curriculum by Senior Principal Nautical Trainer, Maj. (Rtd) Frankline Toniok, who underscored the importance of equipping instructors with the right knowledge and tools to effectively pass the training to cadets and seafarers.
In support of this programme, BMA CEO Dr. Katana reiterated the academy’s commitment to producing not only technically competent seafarers but also professionals who uphold the highest standards of ethics, dignity, and workplace safety.
